Every year, approximately 10 million people undergo cosmetic surgery, adding up to more than $12 billion in revenue for plastic surgeons. Many people may consider cosmetic surgery as “minor” but when a patient is a victim of a medical error during a procedure, the result can be catastrophic. Some of the more frequent consequences include permanent and disfiguring scars, potentially fatal infections, and more. If you have suffered an injury due to a cosmetic surgical error, contact a medical malpractice attorney today to find out what legal recourse you may have.
Common Causes of Cosmetic Surgery Medical Errors and Malpractice
Many plastic surgeons accused of malpractice are ones who fail to hire qualified staff or who engage in dangerous medical practices. One of the most common – and deadly – issues that arise in cosmetic surgery errors is that the doctor performing the surgery is not actually a board-certified plastic or general surgeon, but instead is only licensed for a certain specialty, such as dermatology.
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Another common danger during cosmetic surgery is that the surgeon does not use the services of a licensed anesthesiologist, but instead hires a nurse anesthetist. Instead of conducting the procedure in a hospital, the surgeon will do it at their office where there is not the same life-saving equipment and medical staff in the event of complications arising during the surgery. All of these are ways plastic surgeons can cut the costs of procedures, upping their own profit.
Other frequent causes of cosmetic surgery malpractice is operating on the wrong body part and not considering the patient’s full medical history before doing the surgery.
Due Diligence
Just as consulting with any medical professional, patients should do a through vetting on any plastic surgeon they are considering consulting with. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral, as well as referrals from family and friends. Check with your state’s medical licensing board to make sure there have been no disciplinary actions or complaints filed against the surgeon you are considering.
Most plastic surgeons are highly skilled and highly trained medical professionals who put their patients’ safety and health as a top priority. It is important for anyone considering a cosmetic surgery procedure to understand all the potential risks and dangers that may occur.
Contact a Medical Malpractice Attorney for Help
Malpractice cases for cosmetic surgery can be difficult, especially if the procedure itself was an elective one not covered by insurance. How the jury who hears the case perceives the situation is critical in how they make their decision on whether the surgeon was negligent. Some jury members may have a less sympathetic view for a victim in this situation, which is why having a skilled malpractice attorney presenting your case can make all the difference in whether or not the lawsuit is successful.
Call a lawyer today to set up a confidential consultation with a medical malpractice lawyer in Harrisonburg, VA from MartinWren, P.C. and find out how we can help.
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